“Time out” means a short break or pause. It is used when something stops for a little while, usually so people can rest, think, or calm down.
People use “time out” in everyday life when they need a break from work, a game, a conversation, or a stressful situation. Parents may give a child a time out as a way to calm down and reflect. In sports, a team may call a time out to stop play and plan their next move.
Meaning & Usage
“Time out” can mean a brief pause in an activity. It can be used in a general way, or in a more specific way in sports and parenting.
Examples
– Let’s take a time out and get some water.
– The coach called a time out.
– She needed a time out from work.
Context / Common Use
In daily English, “time out” often means a short break. In parenting, it usually means a calm-down period for a child. In sports, it means stopping the game briefly.
Is “time out” the same as a break?
Yes, often it is. But “time out” usually suggests a short, temporary pause.
Can “time out” be used at work?
Yes. People may say they need a time out when they want a short rest or a moment to reset.
What does “call a time out” mean?
It means to stop what is happening for a short time, usually to rest, talk, or plan.
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